Mohammed Ben Sulayem has been re-elected as president of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), continuing his leadership of global motorsport for a second four-year term until December 2029.

The 64-year-old Emirati was unopposed in the election held during the FIA General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, a result of the federation’s complex election rules. Ben Sulayem secured 91.51% of the vote, with 8.5% of eligible FIA clubs abstaining.

Election Background and Rules

The FIA election rules require each presidential candidate to propose a complete slate of vice-presidents representing all FIA global regions. Despite intentions to challenge, American Tim Mayer and Swiss Laura Villars were unable to meet these requirements, leaving Ben Sulayem as the sole candidate.

Notably, Brazilian Fabiana Ecclestone, wife of former Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, was already on Ben Sulayem’s team, leaving South America fully represented and blocking rival candidacies. Villars has since filed a legal challenge in France over the election, with the first hearing scheduled for 16 February 2026.

Controversies and Governance Record

Ben Sulayem’s first term, beginning in December 2021, was marked by several controversies, including departures of senior FIA officials amid governance disagreements. Critics argued that some changes undermined the independence of certain FIA governance structures.

However, the FIA issued a statement highlighting his achievements:
“The last four years have seen wide-ranging transformation, improving governance, operations, and restoring the financial health of the federation. Strengthened budgetary discipline, enhanced external audit processes, and modernized governance structures have resulted in greater transparency, accountability, and professional standards across the organisation.”

Ben Sulayem also emphasized the progress made during his first term:
“This year has marked a pivotal moment for the FIA. In 2025, we completed a historic financial turnaround, secured a stronger future for all FIA World Championships, and continued to deliver safer, more sustainable, and more affordable mobility worldwide.”

Ongoing Legal Challenges

The FIA and Formula 1 commercial rights holder are facing separate legal proceedings initiated by former F1 driver Felipe Massa, seeking damages linked to the infamous ‘Crashgate’ scandal at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

Ben Sulayem has additionally been named chairman of the FIA Foundation, an independent UK-registered charity focused on road safety and sustainable mobility, further solidifying his influence in motorsport governance.

Looking Ahead

Ben Sulayem’s re-election ensures continuity of leadership for the FIA, as the organization continues to oversee global motorsport, including Formula 1, World Endurance Championship, and various FIA World Championships. His second term will likely focus on enhancing safety standards, sustainability initiatives, and financial stability across motorsport worldwide.